The sale price represents a magnificent 129% increase on the architectural table clock's 200,000 top estimate.

The clock dates from 1665 a year before the great fire of London

The heritage clock crossed the auction block in London on July 9, provoking "spirited bidding worthy of a Wimbledon final", Bonhams' James Stratton attests.

"Of course, the Samuel Knibb was the highlight of the sale and this clock will be talked about for many years to come - it has opened our eyes on a particularly fascinating period in the development of the domestic clock and it was a privilege to be a part of its history", Stratton said following the sale.

London-based Knibb was in business throughout the great plague (1665) and the great fire (1666).

In terms of clock making technologies, the mid-17th century continues to captivate collectors and experts alike. Previous to the introduction of the pendulum, time was kept to the nearest 15 minutes by mechanical clocks and sundials. The pendulum clock greatly increased accuracy, heralding a new, modern age.

Knibb's pendulum clocks therefore encompassed cutting-edge technologies and would have been considered profoundly sophisticated during the period in which they were created.

Further highlights of the sale included an 18th century mahogany longcase clock, and an engraved carriage clock, which brought 55,250 ($82,262) and 49,250 ($73,329), respectively.

Stratton observed: "Clocks from the pre-1700 period continue to find a ready market and I was particularly pleased to see demand for the better longcases improve on recent years."